ST. LOUIS (KMOX) - St. Louis County Library is closing all library branches to the public starting Wednesday and going back to curbside service only for patrons who want to pick up library materials.
Library officials say this is being done to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The state of Missouri reported nearly 1,800 new COVID-19 cases on Tuesday, to set another state record for the number of new cases in a 24-hour period. The number of infections is thought to be far higher because many people have not been tested, and studies suggest people can be infected with the virus without feeling sick.
St. Louis County also announced new restrictions that will take effect on Friday, including limiting gathering to no more than 50 people, rolling back occupancy for businesses to 25% and closing bars at 10 p.m. each night.
Curbside service at County Libraries is available from 1-6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 1-5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Book drops will remain open.
St. Louis Public Libraries still is allowing patrons inside 15 of its locations.
For more information about County Libraries hours and regulations, click here.